"Such an appointment would be a very divisive move both within the Church of England and in the wider Anglican Communion," the group said.

The Church of England Evangelical Council said the move would "spread confusion" and "be taken as an effort to conform to the spirit of the age".

It added that the Church has a "poor record" on enforcing celibacy.

"By its timing, the bishops appear stung by the national reaction of outrage to the rejection by General Synod of legislation to legalise the consecration of women as bishops," the group said.

"If by this statement they are trying to mend fences with the general populace, showing they are truly in touch with the mind of the nation, they are profoundly out of touch with the reality of civil partnerships, most of which are seen as a focus for sexual activity, not simply an arrangement for tax purposes."